Can you earn well with just a high school diploma?

Is it possible to find a lucrative job with only a high school diploma? I'm considering entering the workforce right after graduation and would love to know which industries or positions pay well without further education.

Absolutely! It's possible to find a well-paying job with just a high school diploma. However, many of these jobs might require hands-on training or mastering a specific skill. Here are few industries and positions to consider:

1. Trade Industry: High-paying jobs within this industry include roles like electrician, plumber, and HVAC technician. These jobs usually require vocational training or an apprenticeship, but they can be quite lucrative once you've gained the necessary experience.

2. Transportation: Jobs like commercial pilots, air traffic controllers, or transit and railroad police can have high earning potentials. Some of these roles, like commercial pilots, often require specific training or certifications but don’t require a degree.

3. Sales: If you have a knack for persuasion and networking, sales can be an excellent field. In particular, roles like real estate broker or sales representative for technical and scientific products can be highly lucrative.

4. Emergency Services: Firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) often earn competitive salaries. These positions usually require specialized training and you may have to pass a physical fitness test.

5. Manufacturing: Positions like power plant operators, nuclear power reactor operators, and petrochemical process control engineers can be high earners. These jobs usually require on-the-job training.

Remember, while these jobs can provide decent salaries, they might also demand physical work or irregular hours. Consider this as you explore your options. An additional benefit is that many of these industries are projected to have stable or increasing job growth in the coming years.